Shocka dives into the life-changing idea of choosing to be a “key” for others, instead of a “padlock”. Your daily choices and intentions can either unlock opportunities and inspiration, or lock possibility away. Through honest self-reflection and actionable advice, you’ll learn how vulnerability, personal responsibility, and living with purpose can empower you to create positive change for yourself and everyone around you.
Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/Q0vuhlPKx1E
Authenticity feels harder than ever when building something from scratch. We're told to "fake it till you make it," but what if that's actually holding us back? How do you lead with genuine confidence when everything feels uncertain?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Hattie Willis is the founder of GuessWorks, an entrepreneurship education company supporting thousands of founders and innovation teams across accelerators, universities, and multinational companies like DPD, Rambøll, and Lloyds Banking Group. She's also co-founder of IfWeRaise, a platform helping underestimated founders access knowledge and networks to raise capital on fairer terms, and hosts the podcast Not My First Guess. As a speaker at major events including Web Summit and Sifted Summit, Hattie advocates for human-centered leadership that embraces vulnerability and psychological safety while building innovation capability in uncertain times.
Today, expect to learn:
• Why charisma is actually competence meeting warmth, not just being impressive
• How to recognize "baby burnout" versus actual clinical burnout and what to do about each
• Why psychological safety is essential for innovation and risk-taking in teams
• The stark cultural differences between US, UK, and Nordic approaches to entrepreneurial failure
• How to move from work-life balance to work-life harmony and what that actually means
• Why soft skills become more critical as technical innovation cycles shorten
• How to overcome persistent imposter syndrome and reframe your credibility narrative
• What it means to build without a blueprint and embrace authentic leadership
• How to separate your internal narrative from reality when making decisions
• Why "I have to" versus "I get to" mindset shifts can transform your motivation... And more!
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hattie-willis-2b47b376/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/notmyfirstguess/
WEBSITE: https://www.ifweraise.com
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
Sources & Jargon Buster:
Psychological Safety: A team climate where individuals feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and speak up without fear of negative consequences
Work-Life Harmony: An approach that integrates work and personal life fluidly rather than strictly separating them
Baby Burnout: Early-stage exhaustion and overwhelm that can be addressed with rest, distinct from clinical burnout
Innovation Culture: Organizational environment that encourages experimentation, learning from failure, and adaptive thinking
Founder Burnout: Chronic exhaustion specific to entrepreneurs facing uncertainty, financial pressure, and constant decision-making
We live in environments designed to overstimulate us, yet wonder why anxiety and depression rates are skyrocketing. What if the spaces we inhabitdaily are actively dysregulating our nervous systems? And what if technology—rather than being part of the problem—could become our greatest tool for prevention? Can virtual reality actually heal us, or are we just addingmore digital noise to an already overwhelming world?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Dr. Efosa Uwubamwen is a London-based medical doctor turned creative strategist and founder of Wellvrse, a pioneering company reimagining preventative health through design, neuroscience, and sensory experience. Aftertraining in medicine and public health, he shifted from traditional clinical roles to focus on how environments impact well-being. His innovative work combines virtual reality, adaptive sound, and digital art to create immersiveexperiences that help regulate nervous systems.
As a certified mindfulness and breathwork teacher, exhibiting visual artist, and public speaker, Efosa merges medical knowledge with creative disciplines to design health systems that promote proactive well-being rather than crisis intervention.
Today, expect to learn:
• Why our modern environments are chronically dysregulating our nervoussystems
• How sensory overstimulation contributes to widespread anxiety,depression, and burnout
• Why we focus on crisis intervention instead of built-in preventativemental healthcare
• How virtual reality and biometric feedback can create personalizedhealing spaces
• Why listening to yourself is a critical but underdeveloped health skill
• How journaling and self-awareness practices can transform emotionalinsight
• Why knowledge alone isn't enough—the real challenge is behavioralchange
• How environmental design and social justice are deeply interconnected
• What adaptive physical and digital environments could look like fornervous system regulation
• Why grassroots individual change must be supported by informed policyfor systemic transformation
The nervous system is our body's command center, constantly processingenvironmental stimuli and determining our stress responses. When chronicallyoverstimulated by modern life's sensory bombardment—from urban noise to digitaloverwhelm—it can become dysregulated, contributing to mental health challenges.Virtual reality therapy is emerging as a powerful tool for mental healthtreatment, allowing controlled exposure to therapeutic environments that canhelp retrain stress responses and promote healing.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: http://www.wellvrse.com
LINKEDIN: http://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-efosa
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/efos/
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://mainpage.me/seven.jacobs
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
SOURCES & JARGON BUSTER:
• Nervous System Regulation: The process ofmanaging your body's stress response through various techniques
• VR Therapy:Virtual reality applications designed for mental health treatment and nervous system healing
• Preventative Mental Healthcare: Proactive approaches to mental wellness before crisis points are reached
• Sensory Overstimulation: When environmental inputs exceed our nervous system's ability to process them healthily
We're naturally wired to sync with others: our heartbeats, brain waves, and emotions align when we connect. But modern life is breaking this biological superpower. Are we losing our ability to truly empathize and collaborate? What happens when our brains can no longer synchronize with the people around us?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Megan Pratt is a Business Humanizer and Partner at Innate Motion, a global strategic consultancy that helps brands grow by deeply understanding people within rich cultural contexts. She combines her neuroscience background with narrative expertise, focusing on how human insight translates into strategic storytelling for meaningful business growth. Originally from Florida and now based in Seville, Spain, Megan has worked with hundreds of brands worldwide, emphasizing empathy, connection, and practical brain science applications to improve collaboration and interpersonal synchrony.
Today, expect to learn:
• What synchrony really is and why our brains naturally align with others during interaction
• How synchronized movements, emotions, heartbeats, and brain waves boost empathy and cooperation
• Why smartphone use and social isolation are destroying our capacity for human connection
• How an eight-week intervention increased empathy between Israeli and Palestinian teenagers through brainwave synchrony
• Why empathy works like a muscle that gets stronger or weaker based on use
• How to deliberately foster synchrony through eye contact, music, movement, and shared goals
• What "group flow" means and how it creates optimal collaborative states
• How to apply these insights in workplaces and remote settings for better teamwork
• Why addressing societal polarization requires rebuilding our biological connection capacity
Synchrony represents our evolutionary advantage for survival through cooperation. Research shows it develops faster between bonded individuals but can emerge among strangers working toward shared goals. Understanding these mechanisms offers practical pathways for improving relationships, reducing social tensions, and creating more empathetic societies through conscious interaction design.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mpratt/
WEBSITE: https://www.innatemotion.com/team-1/megan-pratt
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
Sources & Jargon Buster:
Synchrony: The coordination of brains and bodies in time between people during social interaction
Interbrain synchrony: Alignment of brain activity patterns measured through neuroimaging during social connection
Group flow: Collective immersive state that enhances creativity, collaboration, and team performance
Alpha/Beta brain waves: Different frequencies of brain activity linked to relaxation versus focused cognitive states
Most of us dread networking events - the awkward small talk, the transactional feel, the pressure to "sell yourself." But what if networking could actually be joyful? What if it was less about what you can get and more about what you can give? Mike Adams has cracked the code after attending over 1,000 networking events and transforming from a shy programmer into a master connector.
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Mike Adams is a seasoned serial networker and founder of IntroStars, a platform that rewards business introducers for successful referrals. With 30 years of experience in sales and marketing at leading tech companies such as HP, Apple, and Zoom, Mike has attended over 1,000 networking events and transformed from a shy introvert into an expert connector passionate about helping people build meaningful business relationships. His startup IntroStars is a unique two-sided referral marketplace that allows professionals to earn referral fees by making warm introductions that lead to deals, thereby monetizing the value of their networks.
Today, expect to learn:
• How Mike transformed from a shy programmer into a networking expert who's attended 1000+ events
• Why most people approach networking completely wrong and what mindset shift changes everything
• The practical strategies that work best at networking events (including where to stand and what questions to ask)
• How AI and digital spam are making authentic face-to-face connections more valuable than ever
• Why curiosity and genuine interest in others beats any sales technique
• How introstars is revolutionizing referral marketing by paying people for warm introductions
• The ethical framework Mike uses to build lasting business relationships
• Why networking should feel joyful rather than transactional
• How to monetize your network without compromising relationships
Referral marketing operates on the principle that warm introductions are significantly more effective than cold outreach, with studies showing referral leads convert at much higher rates. The rise of AI-generated content and digital spam has created what experts call "message fatigue," making authentic human connections increasingly valuable in business contexts. This trend supports Mike's philosophy that genuine relationship-building trumps digital tactics.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://introstars.com
LINKEDIN: https://linkedin.com/in/supermike
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
We're living through a polycrisis - climate change, inequality, migration, polarization—all interconnected and seemingly insurmountable. But what if the solution isn't top-down policy or technological fixes? What if it's about transforming how we see ourselves: from passive consumers to active citizens?
Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/EgtaezzlzqQ
Mental health stigma kills more than we realize, especially in Black communities where vulnerability is seen as weakness. But what if our deepest struggles could become our greatest strengths? What if vulnerability was actually the key to healing not just ourselves, but others too?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Kenneth Erhahon, known as Shocka, is a British rapper and mental health advocate from Tottenham, London, best known as one-third of the grime collective Marvell. After facing severe mental health challenges—including multiple hospitalizations and a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia—he transformed his personal struggles into a mission to raise awareness about mental health, particularly within the Black community. Through his music, public speaking, and advocacy, Shocka promotes vulnerability as strength, emphasizing self-love, forgiveness, and the importance of connection to overcome loneliness and stigma. His album "Vulnerability Is The New Cool" reflects his mission to destigmatize mental health struggles.
Today, expect to learn:
• Why Shocka was sectioned four times and how the mental health system failed him
• How loneliness has become a hidden epidemic killing more people than physical diseases
• Why the spiritual dimension of mental health is overlooked due to stigma around "non-normal" experiences
• How forgiveness of self and others became foundational to his healing process
• Why vulnerability needs to become "cool," especially for Black men
• How music serves as a healing instrument beyond what words can accomplish
• What it means to live as a "key" that opens doors rather than a "padlock" that keeps them shut
• How celebrating small wins and keeping commitments to yourself builds mental resilience
• Why sharing imperfect truths publicly counters perfectionism and reduces stigma
Mental health sectioning involves involuntary detention in psychiatric facilities under mental health laws when someone is deemed a risk to themselves or others. Paranoid schizophrenia is characterized by delusions and hallucinations, often involving persecution themes. Grime is a genre of electronic music that emerged from London in the early 2000s, characterized by aggressive lyrics and syncopated beats.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/shocka_artist/?hl=en
SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/artist/76fFlbX737z6RGZrTJ5yY5
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
Sources: [1] Shocka's advocacy work and personal journey [2] Impact Over Numbers album (2020) [3] TED talks and public speaking engagements [4] Vulnerability Is The New Cool album and mission
Jargon Buster:
Sectioning: Involuntary detention under mental health laws
Paranoid Schizophrenia: Mental health condition involving delusions and hallucinations
Grime: Electronic music genre from London characterized by aggressive lyrics
Mental Health Advocacy: Public efforts to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health
We live in a world designed for neurotypical brains, forcing millions of neurodivergent people to "mask" their true selves daily just to survive. But what's the real cost of this constant performance? And how can we build systems that celebrate neurological differences rather than suppress them?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Tania Gerard is a neurodiversity trainer, accessible marketing consultant, and keynote speaker who founded Tania Gerard Digital UK. Diagnosed with ADHD and autism, she combines lived experience with professional expertise to help organizations like the NHS, Greene King, and Swim England create inclusive workplaces. As an ADHD UK Ambassador and host of "ADHD Founders Unfiltered," Tania advocates for practical approaches to neurodiversity inclusion. Her TEDx talk "Make your marketing accessible" emphasizes that accessibility drives creativity, trust, and growth across businesses.
Today, expect to learn:
Neurodiversity encompasses conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological differences that affect how people process information, communicate, and experience the world. Masking refers to the exhausting practice of suppressing natural behaviours to appear neurotypical. WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) provides standards for making digital content accessible to people with disabilities, while sensory overload occurs when the nervous system receives more input than it can process effectively.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://www.taniagerard.co.uk
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tania-gerard-neurodiversity/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/taniagerard.co/
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
SOURCES:
- ADHD UK Profile: https://adhduk.co.uk/2025/02/04/tania-gerard/
- Champions Speakers Agent: https://champions-speakers.co.uk/speaker-agent/tania-gerard
- TEDx Talk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCP-Ofou-14
- Alt Marketing School Podcast episode: https://altmarketingschool.com/ep250/
In this insightful snippet, Dami Hastrup, co-founder and CEO of VR training tech startup MOONHUB, delves into the realities of long-term dedication, the ever-shifting goalposts of success, and the unexpected advantages of forging your own path. He shares candid reflections on navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the importance of self-belief amidst external noise, and how to stay grounded when the world starts to take notice. Dami also touches on the power of perspective, the benefits of embracing neurodiversity, and why you should never make big decisions in a bad state of mind.Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vU7DV1FoKPE
We tell young people to work hard and they'll succeed. Yetmillions of talented students are systematically excluded from opportunities because of their background, not their ability. Meanwhile, we cling to outdated education systems that measure the wrong things. Are we wasting an entiregeneration's potential? What would happen if we actually judged people on their capability rather than their circumstances?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Joe Seddon is a British technology entrepreneur and socialinnovator, widely recognised as a leading social entrepreneur in Europe. Born in Leeds and raised in a single-parent family, Joe defied the odds to attend Oxford University—a rare achievement from his constituency. This experience fueled his mission to democratise access to higher education. He founded Zero Gravity in 2018 from his childhood bedroom using his last £200 of student loan. Since then, Zero Gravity has helped over 8,000 students enter top Russell Groupuniversities, including 800+ into Oxbridge, and awarded £1.8 million in scholarships. Joe has been recognised in Forbes 30 Under 30, received the British Empire Medal, and featured in The Sunday Times Young Power List.
Today, expect to learn:
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://www.zerogravity.co.uk/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/zerogravity
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK:https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS:https://mainpage.me/seven.jacobs
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE:https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify):https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple):https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
Sources:
[1] UK StartUp Awards profile of Joe Seddon (2023)
[2] Wikipedia entry on Joe Seddon (2025)
[3] Entrepreneur author bio of Joe Seddon (2024)
[4] Living North interview with Joe Seddon (2024)
Jargon Buster:
- Russell Group: Elite group of 24 research-intensiveuniversities in the UK
- Oxbridge: Oxford and Cambridge universities combined
- Social Mobility: Movement of individuals between socialclasses
- Contextual Performance: Evaluating achievement relative to circumstances rather than fixed metrics
Most of us accept that work should feel like an obligation, something we endure to pay the bills. But what if that's completely backwards? If it wasn't about ping pong tables and free snacks, but psychological safety, meaningful challenges, and the freedom to experiment?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Naily Makangu is a software engineer turned Fractional CPO and CTO, leveraging her 10+ years at Siemens Industry Software to transform tech teams from founder liabilities into strategic assets. Known as "The Mary Poppins of Startups," she helps companies from FinTech to ClimateTech build platforms that often reduce development costs by over 60%. She serves as Director at Founder Institute London, hosts The Mary Poppins of Startups Show, and bridges technical and business teams to deliver the right product, on time and on budget.
Today, expect to learn:
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://athenaleaders.com
LINKEDIN: https://linkedin.com/in/nailymakangu
YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@athenaleaders
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/nailymak
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
JARGON BUSTER:
● Fractional Executive: Part-time senior leadership role across multiple organizations
● Psychological Safety: Team environment where people feel safe to take risks and voice opinions
● Playground Effect: Work culture where employees feel empowered, creative, and engaged
● Retrospectives/Prospectives: Agile practices for reflecting on past work and planning improvements
● NLP: Neuro-Linguistic Programming - techniques for changing thought and behaviour patterns
In this snippet, Ando Eniwumide, CEO of Happening, explores the deep-seated fears that prevent individuals from stepping into their full potential. He distinguishes between the fear of potential and the fear of the demanding process required for success. Ando shares personal insights on abandoning pride, embracing "failing forward," and the real-world consequences and sacrifices, like selling houses, that come with an entrepreneurial journey. The discussion also delves into the psychological aspects of perceived versus physical reality, the profound impact of having supportive partners and networks that reinforce ambition, and the power of proximity in unlocking one's thinking.
Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nayOanNs6NI&t=2s
We're told to follow our dreams and "be authentic," but most of us live lives that contradict our deepest values. We work for companies we don't believe in, consume things that don't align with our principles, and wonder why we feel disconnected. So what does authentic living actually look like? How do we bridge the gap between who we are and how we show up in the world?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Johnny J Pawlik is an award-winning communications and branding expert with over 20 years of experience, based in Yorkshire (UK) and Kyoto (Japan). He is the Founder and Managing Director of Mantra Media, an international marketing and branding firm focused on ethical and purpose-driven work. He co-founded the Japanese luxury heritage brand Atelier Japan and has worked with clients including the European Parliament, UKTI, and Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Featured in Forbes as "the Ethical Marketer" and outlets like BBC and Good Morning Britain, his work emphasizes authenticity, cognitive consistency, and aligning actions with personal and organizational values—principles born from his journey from a challenging upbringing on a UK council estate to becoming a purpose-driven entrepreneur.
Today, expect to learn:
Community Notes:
Cognitive dissonance occurs when our beliefs, values, and actions don't align, creating psychological discomfort. Research shows this misalignment can lead to stress, anxiety, and decision paralysis. Cultural intelligence involves understanding how different societies approach values like individualism versus collectivism, helping us develop more nuanced worldviews. Ethical branding represents a growing movement where companies prioritize purpose alongside profit, responding to consumer demand for authentic, values-driven organizations.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://www.mantrahq.com
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnypawlik/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/mantra_media_ltd
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/podcast
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
Key Terms:
• Cognitive Dissonance: Psychological discomfort from conflicting beliefs and actions
• Cultural Intelligence: Ability to function effectively across different cultural contexts
• Ethical Branding: Marketing approach prioritizing values and social impact alongside profit
• Cognitive Consistency: Alignment between beliefs, values, and behaviours for psychological wellbeing
We're living through a polycrisis—climate change, inequality, migration, polarization—all interconnected and seemingly insurmountable. But what if the solution isn't top-down policy or technological fixes? What if it's about transforming how we see ourselves: from passive consumers to active citizens?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Ruth is a UK-based social innovator and community builder, best known for founding The Canvas Café—a not-for-profit, vegan café and creative venue in Shoreditch, East London (2014–2022). The Canvas became a vital safe space, offering free meals to disadvantaged and homeless locals and hosting up to 60 free community events per month. When the pandemic forced The Canvas's closure, Ruth channelled her commitment into broader grassroots activism. She now serves as Programme Manager for the charity Community Organisers and oversees the growth of the Humanity Project, a bottom-up popular assembly movement. Ruth is also a mother of two young children, and her work remains rooted in the belief that humans are amazing when given the space and opportunity to connect and collaborate.
Today, expect to learn :
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://thecanvascafe.org
LINKEDIN: https://linkedin.com/in/ruth-canvas-cafe
COMMUNITY ORGANISERS: https://communityorganisers.org.uk
HUMANITY PROJECT: https://humanityproject.uk
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://mainpage.me/seven.jacobs
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
SOURCES & JARGON BUSTER:
● Polycrisis: Interconnected global challenges that cannot be addressed in isolation
● Citizens' Assembly: Representative group of citizens convened to deliberate on public issues
● Third Places: Social environments separate from home and work, vital for community building
We tend to confuse empathy with sympathy, and so, fail to develop our EQ. No one wants to admit this though - and so we go around acting with low EQ, low empathy, and therefore, low leadership capability, because leadership is about people, which requires that ability to understand them. Luckily, there's something you can do about it.
Watch the full episode with Rachael here: https://youtu.be/2Ga_RRYV7pA
We're told that having smart ideas is enough to succeed. But why do so many brilliant people with great strategies still fail? What's the missing ingredient that separates those who achieve their goals from those who don't? Could it be that success isn't just about what you know, but how you connect with others and maintain focus on what truly matters?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Faris Aranki is the Founder and CEO of Shiageto Consulting, bringing over 20 years of experience in helping companies, teams, and individuals sharpen effectiveness through strategic leadership and emotional intelligence. His career began as a school teacher in Latin America and London before transitioning to senior strategy roles in global organizations. He developed a unique success formula: SUCCESS = IQ x EQ x FQ, where IQ represents smart ideas, EQ covers emotional intelligence and human connection, and FQ is his coined term for Focus Quotient - the ability to maintain focus and overcome distractions.
Today, expect to learn why most people fail despite having brilliant ideas and strategies.
Community Notes:
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) research shows strong links between EQ and leadership effectiveness, team cohesion, and business success. Focus Quotient (FQ) addresses the critical need to manage distractions in our age of information overload. Gamification in learning and work has empirical support for improving engagement through dopamine release and motivation. The multiplicative model aligns with modern leadership science showing success requires balancing cognitive skill, emotional connection, and disciplined execution.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://shiageto.com
LINKEDIN: https://linkedin.com/in/farisaranki
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/farisaranki
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://mainpage.me/seven.jacobs
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
SOURCES & JARGON BUSTER:
Listen in to this one, where our guest used our host as an example and DEMOLISHES how he uses his story and marketing to build a business 😅
Most founders focus obsessively on perfecting their product, but the most successful ones understand something different: their personal story is their greatest competitive advantage. Yet many struggle to authentically share their journey without feeling like they're bragging or being inauthentic. So how do you transform your founder story into content that genuinely connects and converts?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Ken Ekow is the founder of Scale Story, an agency specializing in video-first personal branding that partners with scaling founders to transform their traction into content capital—helping them go from unseen to unforgettable. Originally starting Scale Story in 2015 to help businesses grow through video content, Ken pivoted after realizing founder stories resonate more powerfully than product videos alone. Scale Story focuses on creating authentic founder narratives that drive mission and impact, primarily working with founders who have raised at least a million pounds, providing personal brand coaching, video content strategies, and executive mindset coaching.
Today, expect to learn:
Community Notes:
Personal branding has become essential for modern founders, with video-first content strategies showing significantly higher engagement rates than traditional marketing approaches. The hero's journey storytelling framework, which involves conflict, transformation, and insight, helps audiences emotionally connect with founder narratives, creating trust and thought leadership that converts into business growth over time.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~WEBSITE: https://www.scale-story.comLINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helloekow/
HOST LINKS ~WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searchingYOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcastALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearchingALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
In this snippet, Ndu Uchea, CEO of Word on the Curb and Google-sponsored 2024 Founder of the Year, dives into the motivations behind modern impatience and the critical importance of understanding people. He discusses how to cultivate this skill for improved relationships and explores the current state of media, questioning whether it intentionally fuels fear. Ndu also touches on the evolving landscape of influence and the vital need for creative energy in today's world.
Listen to the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXfxkxQwTcg
We're told creativity is just for artists, but neuroscience reveals it's essential for problem-solving, mental health, and human flourishing. So why do modern environments and habits systematically shut down our creative networks? What's really happening in our brains when we create—and how can we redesign our lives to unlock it?
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Saskia Wheeler is a science communicator specializing in neuroscience as applied to mental wellbeing. She translates neuroscience research into practical, human-centered tools that support healthier minds and environments. At Kyan Health, she collaborates with organizations to foster cultures emphasizing psychological safety, collective resilience, and long-term wellbeing.
Her academic background combines Neuroaesthetics and Creativity (MSc, Goldsmiths) with Philosophy of Mind and Aesthetics (MA, Trinity College Dublin), bridging neuroscience, design, and human experience to apply science-led strategies in workplace wellbeing and environmental influence on cognition, emotion, and performance.
Today, expect to learn:
• What the three brain networks involved in creativity actually do and why they rarely work together
• Why creative people have "attenuated latent inhibition" and can't filter out irrelevant information like others
• How this relates to ADHD and why neurodivergent minds often show enhanced creativity
• Why survival mode brain states completely shut down creative thinking• How AI tools might be rewiring our brains in concerning ways by reducing cognitive effort
• What "neuroaesthetics" reveals about how our physical environment affects our mental state
• Practical methods to regulate your nervous system and shift from survival to creation mode
• How psychological safety helps you to better regulate emotions and how that can support better creativity
• How to redesign your environment and habits to support your brain's creative networks
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://www.saskiawheeler.co.uk
LINKEDIN: https://linkedin.com/in/saskiawheeler
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/neuro.aesthetic
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
Sources & Further Reading:
[1] Neuroscience communication research on public engagement and accurate messaging
[2] Studies on the intersection of AI and neuroscience in mental health applications
[3] Academic research on neuroplasticity, creativity networks, and environmental neuroscience
[4] Neuroaesthetics research on how design impacts brain function and wellbeing
Jargon Buster:
• Default Mode Network: Brain network active during rest and daydreaming, crucial for creative thinking
• Executive Control Network: Brain system responsible for critical thinking, planning, and decision-making
• Salience Network: Neural network that determines what captures our attention and feels meaningful
• Attenuated Latent Inhibition: Reduced ability to filter out irrelevant stimuli, common in creative individuals
• Neuroplasticity: The brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections throughout life
• Neuroaesthetics: The study of how aesthetic experiences affect the brain and behaviour
We're obsessed with instant results and quick fixes. But what if the real transformation happens when we stop chasing the next shiny object and start trusting our own process? What if the key to sustainable success isn't balance, but intentional imbalance? Ivor Stratford quit alcohol, ran marathons, and built a thriving company—all while questioning everything we're told about work-life balance.
👉 Find the full playlist of episodes HERE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO6l9CNQoSFdYrSofAAHBcTdsnpYk8iYg
Ivor Stratford is the Co-Founder and Director of Morpheus Group, a specialist talent partner focusing on high-growth and venture-backed companies across the US and Europe. With over a decade of experience in talent acquisition and executive search, he helps founders build world-class teams in competitive markets.
Beyond business, Ivor has maintained over 1,000 days alcohol-free, is a marathon and ultra-marathon runner, and a scratch golfer. This dedication to health and discipline informs his approach to sustainable high performance in both life and business.
Today, expect to learn
- Why quitting alcohol gave Ivor 252 hours of his life back each year and transformed his mental clarity.
- How consistency beats intensity when building lasting habits and why most people give up too early.
- Why the traditional work-life balance model might be incompatible with ambitious goals and what to do instead.
- How to find fulfillment in the process rather than chasing end goals like exits or revenue milestones.
- Why trusting your own path is more important than following conventional wisdom about success.
- How to maintain intense work demands without burning out by aligning ambition with personal values.
- What it means to stop feeling "lost and searching" and finally feel content with your progress.
- Why small, cumulative wins are more powerful than expecting quick transformations.
- How to build a company culture that balances speed with teamwork and clear communication.
W H A T T O D O N E X T :
GUEST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://www.morpheus-group.com
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivor-stratford
HOST LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com
SUBSTACK: https://sevenjacobs.substack.com
SOCIALS: https://sevenjacobs.com/links
SHOW LINKS ~
WEBSITE: https://sevenjacobs.com/lost-and-searching
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lostandsearchingpodcast
ALL EPISODES (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lostandsearching
ALL EPISODES (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lost-and-searching/id1771369908
JARGON BUSTER:
● Alcohol Abstinence Benefits: Medical research showing improved cognitive function, sleep quality, and sustained energy levels
● Habit Formation: The 2-3 month timeline for behavioural change to become automatic
● Work-Life Balance vs. Integration: The difference between traditional balance and intentional life design
● Presenteeism: Being physically present at work but mentally impaired due to factors like hangovers
